U.S. patent application number 17/197793 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-15 for plant growth platform.
This patent application is currently assigned to Earth Scout, GBC. The applicant listed for this patent is Earth Scout, GBC. Invention is credited to Christopher Burg, Michael Immer, Dipesh Karki, Peder Lindberg, David Mulla, Oleg Myslov, Mitra Sangroula, Troy Schmidtke, Subigya Shakya.
Application Number | 20220287227 17/197793 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005460091 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220287227 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Karki; Dipesh ; et
al. |
September 15, 2022 |
PLANT GROWTH PLATFORM
Abstract
A method for continuous real time monitoring of a crop growth
including the use of a telescoping sensor mount capable of
systematically extending a sensor above a crop growth canopy. The
method includes determining a value associated with soil
saturation, soil nitrogen mineralization, and growing degree units.
These values are made available to the user real time. The
telescoping sensor mount of the invention includes a foldaway
tripod support system and is further capable of being powered with
solar energy.
Inventors: |
Karki; Dipesh; (Minneapolis,
MN) ; Schmidtke; Troy; (Minneapolis, MN) ;
Myslov; Oleg; (Minneapolis, MN) ; Shakya;
Subigya; (Minneapolis, MN) ; Lindberg; Peder;
(Fargo, ND) ; Sangroula; Mitra; (Minneapolis,
MN) ; Burg; Christopher; (Minneapolis, MN) ;
Mulla; David; (Minneapolis, MN) ; Immer; Michael;
(Minneapolis, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Earth Scout, GBC |
Minneapolis |
MN |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Earth Scout, GBC
Minneapolis
MN
|
Family ID: |
1000005460091 |
Appl. No.: |
17/197793 |
Filed: |
March 10, 2021 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 50/02 20130101;
A01C 21/007 20130101; A01B 79/005 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A01C 21/00 20060101
A01C021/00; A01B 79/00 20060101 A01B079/00; G06Q 50/02 20060101
G06Q050/02 |
Claims
1. A method for continuous real time monitoring a crop growth, the
method including the steps of: providing field units for
positioning within a boundary of a crop growth, wherein the field
units are capable of coupling to accessories; linking the field
units to a base station; transmitting and receiving data between
the field units and the base station; obtaining data corresponding
to outputs from the accessories; obtaining setting preferences for
at least two items selected from the group consisting of the field
units, accessories, a date range, and a soil decay rate;
determining values associated with at least one of soil saturation,
soil nitrogen mineralization, and growing degree units; and making
the determined values available to a user within a day of obtaining
data corresponding to the outputs of the accessories.
2. The method as recited in claim 1, further including the step of
providing information to the user to allow optimization of tissue
sampling tools dependent upon the values associated with the at
least one of soil saturation, soil nitrogen mineralization, and
growing degree units.
3. The method as recited in claim 1, further including the step of
providing information to the user to allow optimization of grower
practices dependent upon the values associated with the at least
one of soil saturation, soil nitrogen mineralization, and growing
degree units.
4. The method as recited in claim 1, further including the step of
providing information to the user to allow irrigation optimization
dependent upon the values associated with the at least one of soil
saturation, soil nitrogen mineralization, and growing degree
units.
5. The method as recited in claim 1, further including the step of
providing information concerning nitrogen mineralization predictors
to the user.
6. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the step of
determining a value associated with soil saturation further
includes determining field capacity and plant water extraction
limit.
7. The method as recited in claim 6, further including the step of
estimating available water holding capacity (AWC).
8. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the step of
determining a value associated with soil nitrogen mineralization
further includes transmitting and receiving data from a soil
temperature sensor and a soil moisture content sensor.
9. The method as recited in claim 8, further including the step of
providing information concerning nitrogen mineralization predictors
to the user.
10. The method as recited in claim 1, further including the step of
adjusting an arm member of each field unit to remain above a crop
growth canopy.
11. The method as recited in claim 10, wherein the accessories are
coupled to the arm member of each field unit and data is
transmitted associated with at least one of ambient light, air
humidity, and air temperature.
12. The method as recited in claim 11, wherein the accessories are
selected from the group consisting of soil moisture sensors, soil
temp sensors, soil conductivity sensors, soil oxygen sensors, air
oxygen sensors, air temperature sensors, air humidity sensors, air
CO2 sensors, frost sensors, solar radiation sensors, wind sensors,
precipitation sensors, digital camera, and GPS location
sensors.
13. A method for continuous real time monitoring a crop growth, the
method including the steps of: providing field units for
positioning within a boundary of a crop growth, wherein the field
units are capable of coupling to accessories; linking the field
units to a base station; transmitting and receiving data between
the field units and the base station; obtaining data corresponding
to outputs from the accessories; setting preferences for the field
units and accessories; transmitting at least one of control
commands, notifications and alarms from the base unit to
applications; and adjusting at least one of irrigation, field
units, and grower practices dependent upon outputs from the
accessories.
14. The method as recited in claim 13, further including the step
of providing information to the user to allow optimization of
tissue sampling tools dependent upon values associated with at
least one of soil saturation, soil nitrogen mineralization, and
growing degree units.
15. The method as recited in claim 13, further including the step
of providing information to the user to allow optimization of
fertilization dependent upon values associated with at least one of
soil saturation, soil nitrogen mineralization, and growing degree
units.
16. The method as recited in claim 13, further including the step
of providing information to the user to allow irrigation
optimization dependent upon values associated with at least one of
soil saturation, soil nitrogen mineralization, and growing degree
units.
17. The method as recited in claim 13, further including the step
of adjusting an arm member of each field unit to remain above a
crop growth canopy.
18. The method as recited in claim 17, wherein the accessories are
coupled to the field unit and data is transmitted associated with
at least one of ambient light, air humidity, and air
temperature.
19. The method as recited in claim 18, wherein the accessories are
selected from the group consisting of soil moisture sensors, soil
temp sensors, soil conductivity sensors, soil oxygen sensors, air
oxygen sensors, air temperature sensors, air humidity sensors, air
CO2 sensors, frost sensors, solar radiation sensors, wind sensors,
digital cameras, precipitation sensors, and GPS location sensors.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not Applicable
FEDERAL SPONSORSHIP
[0002] Not Applicable
JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT
[0003] Not Applicable
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0004] This invention pertains generally to a plant growth platform
that allows a grower to determine in real time crop growth rates,
growth phases, and early warnings of crop instability to adjust and
make changes to growing practices. The methods of the present
invention also assists growers with yield prediction and harvest
optimization. Output data from the sensors and user inputs are used
to derive Growing Degree Units (GDU), irrigation optimization, soil
health maps, tissue sampling tools, and nitrogen mineralization
predictors. With this real time factual information the grower is
in a better position to make well-informed decisions regarding
grower practices including modification of irrigation,
fertilization, cultivation, lighting, and other actions within the
grower's control.
BACKGROUND
[0005] Over the years various systems have been implemented to
monitor crop growth and field conditions. Various methods of crop
monitoring practices have required stationary sensors positioned in
the field. However, certain agriculture crop field sensors have had
limited effectiveness over the life cycle of the crop. Instable
power to field sensors, unreliable data transmissions, lost data,
and inaccurate measurements have all contributed to unreliable
monitoring of crop growth. Further, the delays in obtaining sensor
information have made it undependable to optimize tissue sampling
tools, soil health maps, irrigation modifications, and other grower
practices based upon the time delayed data. It is therefore
desirable to provide a method for continuous real time monitoring
of a crop growth including the use of a field unit that
systematically transmits reliable sensor data, thereby enabling
real time data analysis for the grower. The method of the present
invention includes determining a value associated with soil
saturation, soil nitrogen mineralization, and growing degree
units.
[0006] Also, as the crop begins to grow the height of the crop
canopy may interfere with transmission of desired sensor data or
reliability of sensor data. By way of example, a temperature sensor
or light sensor covered by a crop canopy may provide data points
that vary significantly from a temperature sensor or light sensor
positioned above the growth canopy. The grower may be more
interested in knowing data related to temperature, humidity and
light conditions of air above the crop field rather than under the
growth canopy. However, as the crop grows the sensors may be
covered by crop canopy. Further, it may be preferred to make crop
management decisions relying upon sensor data correlating with air
above the growth canopy rather than sensor data measured under a
growth canopy.
SUMMARY
[0007] Embodiments according to aspects of the invention provide
for continuous real time monitoring a crop growth to allow a grower
to make decisions based upon real time data. The platform of the
present invention provides real time data and factual information
to growers corresponding to data obtained from probes, field
sensors and other accessories corresponding to soil moisture, soil
temp, soil conductivity, soil oxygen, air oxygen, air temp, air
humidity, air CO2, frost, solar radiation, wind, precipitation,
GPS, etc. Further, a field unit sensor mount and support may be
used to elevate one or more sensors above a crop growth canopy and
to communicate sensor information to a base station. The sensor
mount and support are capable of extension and retraction and
provides a solid base support for the sensors when subjected to
heavy winds and other inclement weather.
[0008] The method of the present invention includes the steps of
providing field units for positioning within a boundary of a crop
growth; linking the field units to a base station; transmitting and
receiving data between the field units and the base station;
obtaining data corresponding to outputs from field accessories
including sensors; obtaining preferences for various user defined
settings; determining values associated with soil saturation, soil
nitrogen mineralization, and growing degree units; and making the
determined values available to a user in real time (typically less
than 45 minutes) from a time of obtaining data corresponding to the
outputs of the field accessories. In embodiments of the invention
the field units are capable of coupling to field sensors. Further,
the user defined "settings" may include preferences for at least
two items selected from the group consisting of the field units,
the field sensors, a date range, and a soil decay rate.
[0009] According to aspects of the invention the method may further
include the step of providing information to the user to allow
optimization of tissue sampling tools dependent upon the values
associated with the at least one of soil saturation, soil nitrogen
mineralization, and growing degree units. Additionally, the method
may include the step of providing information to the user to allow
optimization of soil health maps dependent upon the values
associated with the at least one of soil saturation, soil nitrogen
mineralization, and growing degree units. Alternatively, the method
may include the step of providing information to the user to allow
irrigation optimization dependent upon the values associated with
the at least one of soil saturation, soil nitrogen mineralization,
and growing degree units. The method may also include the step of
providing information concerning nitrogen mineralization predictors
to the user. Further, the step of determining a value associated
with soil saturation may further include determining field capacity
and plant water extraction limit and optionally also estimating
available water holding capacity (AWC). The step of determining a
value associated with soil nitrogen mineralization further includes
transmitting and receiving data from a soil temperature sensor and
a soil moisture content sensor. The step may also include providing
nitrogen mineralization predictors to the user.
[0010] Each field unit may include an arm member that may be
adjusted to remain above the crop growth canopy. Select field
sensors may be coupled to the arm member of each field unit such
that data may be transmitted associated with at least one of
ambient light, air humidity, and air temperature. Those skilled in
the art will appreciate that the field sensors coupled to the field
unit may include soil moisture sensors, soil temperature sensors,
soil conductivity sensors, soil oxygen sensors, air oxygen sensors,
air temperature sensors, air humidity sensors, air CO2 sensors,
frost sensors, solar radiation sensors, wind sensors, precipitation
sensors, and GPS location sensors.
[0011] In accordance with aspects of the invention the field units
are capable of raising or lowering a sensor such that the sensor is
positioned above a crop growth canopy. According to other aspects,
the apparatus of the invention is capable of being activated
remotely and may be remotely raised or lowered relative to a crop
growth canopy. Further, the invention may also utilize a method for
continuously positioning a sensor above a crop growth canopy. These
and other embodiments according to aspects of the invention include
an apparatus having an extendable pole, an arm member extending
outward from an upper end of the pole, a sensor mount, a support
having actuating legs, and a remote data transmit module housing.
The extendable pole is capable of extending between a lowered and
raised position. The extendable pole also has a coupling to secure
the pole in a fixed lowered position and a fixed raised position.
The sensor mount is positioned at an outer end of the arm member
and is adapted for retaining a sensor. The support has a central
column, an upper spacer member slidingly coupled to the central
column, a lower spacer member slidingly coupled to the central
column below the upper spacer member, and at least three folding
legs linked to the central column. Each leg has an end portion
rotationally joined to the upper spacer member and also has a
mid-portion rotationally joined to the lower spacer member. The
remote data transmit module housing is coupled to an upper end of
the central column of the support member, and both the support and
the remote data transmit module housing are releasably engaged to
the extendable pole.
[0012] In use, at least one field unit is provided for positioning
within a boundary of a crop growth canopy. Sub units and multiple
accessories may be linked or coupled to a field unit. Each field
unit may be secured in a field using an extendable pole, an arm
member, a sensor mount, a support and a remote data transmit sensor
housing. The extendable pole is capable of extending between a
lowered and raised position. The extendable pole also has a
coupling to secure the pole in a fixed lowered position and a fixed
raised position. The arm member extends outward from an upper end
of the pole. The sensor mount is positioned at an outer end of the
arm member. The support has a central column, an upper spacer
member slidingly coupled to the central column, a lower spacer
member slidingly coupled to the central column below the upper
spacer member, and at least three folding legs linked to the
central column. Each leg has an end portion rotationally joined to
the upper spacer member and each leg has a mid-portion rotationally
joined to the lower spacer member. The remote data transmit module
housing is coupled to an upper end of the central column of the
support member. Both the support and the remote data transmit
module housing are releasably engaged to the extendable pole and
the arm member is adjustable to remain above the crop growth
canopy.
[0013] Once the field units are positioned within the crop growth
one or more field units and sub units are wirelessly linked to a
base station or base server. Data from one or more sensors is
transmitted from the field unit to the base station. The
accessories, including the digital cameras, sub units and sensors
are chosen dependent upon the crop being monitored and may include
humidity sensors, soil moisture sensors, soil salinity sensor,
temperature sensors, lights sensors, aeration sensor, to name just
a few sensors known to crop growers. At least one of the sensors
may be coupled to the arm member and the arm member may be adjusted
to remain above the crop growth canopy. Data from the sensors is
transmitted from the field unit to the base station. In accordance
with aspects of the invention the transmitted data may be
associated with at least one of ambient light, air humidity, and
air temperature. The arm member may be further adjusted dependent
upon a compilation of data from the field units.
[0014] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute a portion of this specification, illustrate embodiments
of the invention and, together with the detailed description, serve
to further explain the invention. The embodiments illustrated
herein are presently preferred; however, it should be understood,
that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and
instrumentalities shown. For a fuller understanding of the nature
and advantages of the invention, reference should be made to the
detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] In the various figures, which are not necessarily drawn to
scale, like numerals throughout the figures identify substantially
similar components.
[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic of an embodiment of a remotely
operable field unit and base station in accordance with the present
invention;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a schematic of an embodiment of a compilation
module in accordance with the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method in
accordance with the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a field unit mount of
the present invention shown in a lowered wide position;
[0020] FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of a field unit mount
remote of the present invention shown in a lowered narrow
position;
[0021] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a field unit mount of the
present invention shown in an extended wide position;
[0022] FIG. 7 is an upper perspective view of a field unit mount of
the present invention shown in a lowered wide position and showing
the remote data transmit module housing in an open position;
[0023] FIG. 8 is a lower perspective view of a field unit mount of
the present invention shown in a lowered wide position and showing
the remote data transmit module housing in an open position;
[0024] FIG. 9 is a lower back perspective view of a field unit
mount of the present invention shown in a raised wide position;
and
[0025] FIG. 10 is an upper side perspective view of a field unit
mount of the present invention shown in a raised wide position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] The following description provides detail of various
embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are set
forth below. Each of these embodiments are provided by way of
explanation of the invention, and not intended to be a limitation
of the invention. Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate
that various modifications and variations may be made in the
present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the
invention. By way of example, those skilled in the art will
recognize that features illustrated or described as part of one
embodiment, may be used in another embodiment to yield a still
further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention
also cover such modifications and variations that come within the
scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
[0027] Aspects of the present invention include an apparatus and
method that provides a crop grower with continuous real time
monitoring of a crop's growth. Generally, the method includes the
steps of providing field units (and potentially linked sub units)
for positioning within a boundary of a crop growth; linking the
field units to a base station; transmitting and receiving data
between the field units and the base station; obtaining data
corresponding to outputs from accessories linked to the field
units; obtaining preferences for various user defined settings;
determining values associated with soil saturation, soil nitrogen
mineralization, and growing degree units; making the determined
values available to a user real time; and adjusting irrigation
protocol, field units, accessories, or other grower practices
dependent upon outputs.
[0028] In embodiments of the invention the field units are capable
of coupling to field sensors, digital cameras, sub field units and
other electronic devices. Further, the user defined "settings" may
include preferences allowing a user to refine the data output for
the particular grower's needs. The field units are coupled to
sensors and may be interfaced with portable devices or internet
linked computers to display crop related real-time data &
historical trends, Growing Degree Units (GDU), alerts,
notifications and helpful tools for managing notes, tasks, soil
test data, tissue sample data, photos, or links to crop specific
reference materials.
[0029] With reference to FIG. 1, a field use schematic 100
illustrates the interplay between a remote field unit data transmit
module 104, wireless relay 110, and base station 120. Once
accessories such as sensors, cameras and sub field units are
attached or wirelessly linked to a particular field unit and the
field unit data transmit module 104 is activated, the remote data
transmit module 104 of a field unit 410 transmits and receives
(represented by 106) data or information with wireless relay 110.
The wireless relay 110, in turn, transmits and receives data 122
with base station or base servers 120. Base 120 includes a
compilation unit 160 that is interfaced thereby allowing a two way
transmit 114 to transmit outputs, including data and control
commands, to and from web applications 130 and mobile applications
140. The transmissions occur through interconnects 164, 124, 132,
and 142 which may be physical or wireless. The two way transmit 114
is coupled at 132 to internet or web applications 130 and is
coupled at 142 to mobile applications 140, such as a phone or
tablet. Both the web applications 130 and mobile applications 140
are linked or coupled (represented by 132 and 142 respectively) to
two way transmit and int turn to compilation unit 160 at 164. The
electronics for the compilation unit 160 may, for example without
limitation intended, reside at the base servers or station 120. The
coupling and interplay of electronic components allows a grower to
seamlessly access data or information from a field unit 410
(together with the accessories and sub units coupled to the field
unit) and further make decisions and transmit control commands
based upon real time data.
[0030] Referring next to FIG. 2, a module schematic 200 illustrates
the inter-workings of compilation unit 160. The compilation unit
160 is comprised of several sub modules including device module
270, mapping module 220, organize module 230, notifications module
240, references module 250, settings module 260, accessories module
272, camera module, 274, tissue growth module 276, profile module
262, edit profile module 264, information module 266, and data
module 280. A user or grower may access the compilation unit 160
through the base unit or base station 120 with the use of a web
application 130 or phone application 140. The web and phone
applications are made available to the user, along with the field
unit 410, under a password or other authentication protocol. Once
the user is logged into the compilation unit 160 access point via
the base unit 120 from the web or mobile app, the various modules
210-290 are accessible by the user.
[0031] From the compilation unit access point the user may enter
preferences 210 as well as control commands for the device module
270, camera module 274, accessories module 272 and other
electronics coupled to a field unit 410.
[0032] The device module 270 provides a list of field units that
are currently accessible by the user. For each field unit the user
may access an accessories module 272 that provides technical
details regarding the field unit and all sensors, sub units,
cameras and other electronics coupled to the field unit. By way of
example, and without limitation intended, technical information
related to the field units internal temperature, location
(determined from gps coordinates), orientation (determined from
gyroscope outputs, modem signal strength, battery strength, and
internal humidity may be utilized to determine a real time status
of each field unit. A notification or alarm may be transmitted to
the user when any of parameters of the technical information
exceeds or falls below thresholds set in the preferences 210. In
this manner a grower may be alerted in real time if the gps
position unexpectedly changes (perhaps indicating attempted theft
in progress) or a field unit tips over allowing a grower to respond
in real time. Other self diagnostic tools for each field unit may
be utilized to alert or notify the user of unit conditions
deviating from preset norms. The user may then act in response to
the alarm or other notification. Further, details associated with
sensor output data for each connected field unit is available
through the accessories module 272. Power management may be
augmented with a solar panel charging unit and super capacitors
allowing a user to choose a shorter time period for polling of each
field unit (transmitting and receiving output and control commands
of the field unit) without draining the battery below operable
output.
[0033] Further, charts corresponding to sensor outputs, selected
criteria or derived GDU's are accessible from the accessories
module 272. Sub field units may be coupled to a field unit via
cellular, wifi or other wireless technology. Each sub field unit
may include single or multiple dedicated sensors (such as a soil
oxygen or moisture sensor). Camera module 274 may link to 1 or more
digital cameras. A 5G gateway allows for efficient transmission of
photo files from the cameras. Those skilled in the art will
appreciate that the one or more cameras may be utilized to monitor
the health of the plant. By way of example, four cameras may be
coupled to one or more field units or sub field units. The first
camera may be equipped with a micro lens and oriented to take close
up or micro images of a plant. The images may be transmitted real
time. Image analysis and Artificial Intelligence may be utilized to
create a data set over time that allows the notification module to
alert the grower if the leaf images deviate from preset norms. A
second camera may be equipped with a wide angle lens and oriented
above a growth canopy. The first and second cameras may be further
utilized to determine the growth stage and yield estimates of the
crop. The third camera may be equipped with a VARI algorithm or may
be equipped to capture near infrared light (NIL). From the images
received from camera three, the camera module may include an
algorithm to determine Normalized Difference Vegetation Index
(NDVI). The grower may utilize the NVDI measurement to assess the
amount of live vegetation and its health in the growth zone. A
fourth camera suitable for providing night time images may further
be utilized by the grower to determine a health characteristic of
the vegetation. Additionally, the camera module may be utilized to
communicate or notify the grower of a verification of GDU for a
growth stage, early detection of pests, yield estimates or nutrient
deficiencies. From the accessories module 272 a user may also
access data module 280. The data module 280 provides access to
configuration information and resulting output data for soil
nitrogen mineralization 284 and soil moisture parameters 286. The
output related to nitrogen mineralization is iterative over time
and indicates to a grower when they don't need to add fertilization
during the growing season. Over time a field is monitored to
determine fertilization needs. Further, as the data output becomes
more robust, the amount of fertilizer needed at a given time may be
adjusted to equal the total nitrogen need minus the cumulative
produced nitrogen. The output from the soil probes coupled to the
field units is utilized to determine the cumulative produced
nitrogen. The soil moisture parameters 286 may be used to determine
the desired irrigation notification. The irrigation notification
may inform the grower how much to irrigate, when to irrigate, and
the expected return on investment dependent upon the actual
irrigation schedule. Also, information correlating with GDU's 282
is available through the data module 280. Although the Growing
Degree Units may be preset or estimated initially dependent upon
type and strain of vegetation, over time the GDU's may be derived
or estimated from the grower's historical data output.
Additionally, a grower may choose to graphically represent the
GDU's overlayed with plant health characteristics, observed pest
activity, or other output obtained from the field units over the
same time period. The determined GDU output may be linked with the
Tissue Module 276 and utilized to inform the grower when the
optimum time would be to take tissue samples. The notification
module may inform the grower the preferred time to take a tissue
sample, from which plant in the growth zone, how to care for the
sample, and where to send the sample.
[0034] Mapping module 220 is accessible from the home screen of the
website communication platform or access point of the compilation
module 160. The map module utilizes GPS sensor outputs from each
field unit to assist a user to visualize the location of each field
unit. The mapping module may provide the user with a visualization
of outputs from the other modules correlated with a particular zone
or area within the crop growth being observed. The mapping module
may further allow a user to visualize the location of the field
units and corresponding accessories (including the camera locations
and sub field unit locations). The mapping module 220 may be linked
with the notification module 240 wherein when a notification
corresponds or is dependent upon a particular field unit or
accessory, that field unit or accessory may be represented in a
different color on the map to indicate that a notification is
pending for that particular unit. Further the mapping module may be
linked to the details module wherein the app derives information to
modify the maps to indicate soil health. Further, by way of example
and without limitation intended, the maps available from the maps
module may be divided into a grid (corresponding to a grid of field
units) and may integrate information and outputs from the details
module 270 and data module 280. Further, these maps may be modified
to indicate soil moisture, soil nitrogen mineralization, GDU,
historical and anticipated yields to assist the grower in
visualizing the crop growth information.
[0035] The organize module 230 provides a platform within the web
application platform for the user to track calendar events, add,
edit or remove calendar events, input notes, or link photos to the
calendar events or notes. In addition, the organize module 230 may
include a time stamp interface to user inputted notes and photos. A
user my have the option to identify the type of note it is (for
example, notes regarding planting, seeding, irrigating, etc.) with
an option to later search notes based upon note identification. The
user may take photos with a digital device and upload them to the
organize module with an option to classify the photo to share,
store, content, relevance, etc. The organize module may be linked
to the other modules and may include search protocols to allow a
user to associate data and outputs with a particular event or
calendar date.
[0036] Notifications module 240 is linked with the other modules
and allows a user to set parameters in the settings module 290
whereby when a parameter is exceeded a notification or alarm is
automatically sent to the grower's stored contact information.
Notifications may include various types and levels such as a
warning, critical alarm, or system type update. The user may
customize notifications based upon desired timing of notification
or may be set dependent upon a logic based determination such as
correlating two or more data points to determine if a preset
criteria to initiate a notification is met. An exemplary
notification may be an alert to the grower when the soil saturation
level either exceeds or falls below a preset level. The grower may
determine that a crop is more susceptible to disease if the soil
saturation level is twenty percent above a predefined norm and the
plant may be subject to will or death if the saturation level falls
five percent below a defined level. A unique and distinct
predetermined alarm or notification may be transmitted, thereby
prompting the grower to consider modifications to the irrigation
schedule. Alternatively, autimatic controls may be implemented to
control the engaging and disengaging of the irrigation system.
Further, historical as well as current notifications may be viewed
through the notifications module 240 to further assist the grower
with determining whether to modify the notification settings,
predict future irrigation schedules, or to manage current
irrigation schedules.
[0037] Reference module 250 is accessible through the compilation
unit access point or home page. The reference module provides a
platform for the user to store selected references. Additionally, a
subscription may be provided that allows user access to additional
recommended content that is dependent upon or determined based upon
the user profile, user dependent outputs and user preferences.
Further, additional references may be suggested and made available
to the user dependent upon data outputs and environmental/plant
growth conditions. As the data output develops historical reference
points additional references may be recommended to the user.
[0038] The settings module 260 and sub modules 262, 264 and 266
allows a user to input, edit and modify the field unit names and
locations, user profile and details, user preferences dependent
upon selected crop and region, and sensor unit names and locations
(dependent upon each field unit). The about module 266 under the
setting s module 260 provides technical information and operational
information about the field unit, hardware information and
potential restrictions on use of the field units. Module 260 may
further provide technical support information and contact
information.
[0039] Without limitation intended, FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary
use of the plant growth platform of the present invention. Field
units 410 are provided to growers for positioning within the
boundary of a crop growth canopy, illustrated at 310. The
particular crop to be monitored and position within the crop field
is determined by the grower. Once the field units 410 are
positioned within the field, a wireless link is established 314
between the field units 410 and base station 120. With a link
established, outputs from the sensors, cameras, sub units or other
electronic components are transmitted 316 from the field units 410
to the base station 120. The data is organized and further compiled
and is accessible by the grower through a link to a web app or
phone app. The soil sensors are positioned below the crop canopy
and the field unit's are adjusted within the field boundary 318.
The location within the field is dependent upon the particular
crop, type of sensors and soil characteristics. The sensors are
selected and coupled to the field unit 410 in accordance with the
particular crop being monitored. The user selects and inputs
preferences for the field unit, coupled sensors, date range, and
soil decay rate 320. Depending upon the particular activated
sensors, outputs or information associated with ambient light, air
humidity, and air temperature and other parameters being monitored
may be transmitted 324 from the remote data transmit module of each
field unit 410 to the base station 120 and from the base station
120 to user web or mobile applications. The compilation module 160
of base unit 120 utilizes the transmitted output, previous compiled
outputs, user inputs, and/or reference data to compile data or
information associated with Growing Degree Units (GDU), soil
moisture saturation, and soil nitrogen mineralization 328. This
data or information is then made available and transmitted to the
grower. Notifications, control commands and alarms may also be
transmitted to the grower 328. The grower or user utilizes this
output information to manually or automatically make adjustments to
irrigation schedules, field units, accessories, grower practices,
and nitrogen mineralization predictors 340 (to name just a few).
Also, the field units 410 may be adjusted automatically or manually
dependent upon output and/or compiled sensor data.
[0040] Further, in use, the crop grower obtains and is provided
with field units that are positionable within a boundary of a crop
growth canopy. Preferably, more than one unit is positioned within
the boundary of the crop. A grid or matrix of spaced apart field
units positioned within the boundary is further preferred. Each
field unit is capable of coupling to one or more field sensors.
Without limitation intended the field sensors coupled to each field
unit may include one or more of the following sensors: soil
moisture sensors, soil temp sensors, soil conductivity sensors,
soil oxygen sensors, air oxygen sensors, air temperature sensors,
air humidity sensors, air CO2 sensors, frost sensors, solar
radiation sensors, wind sensors, precipitation sensors, and GPS
location sensors. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that
other sensors, which a grower of certain crops may desire data from
those other sensors, may be coupled to the field units without
departing from the scope of the invention.
[0041] The sensor output data may be transmitted wirelessly from
the field units in one of several modes. The wireless aspect of the
invention may include wi-fi, z-wave, cellular, Bluetooth or other
wireless systems capable of transmitting and receiving data and
commands between the field units and base station. The plurality of
field units may be wirelessly linked together with known suitable
wireless communications. By way of example and without limitation
intended, a bi-directional Wireless Link Module (WLM) modem may be
coupled to each field unit. Data output from sensors coupled to
each field unit may be transmitted via the WLM to a master field
unit that is coupled to the base unit. A MODBUS communication
protocol and RS 485 electrical standard may be utilized to transmit
wirelessly. Alternatively, each field unit's WLM may couple to a
wireless card and router to transmit data to a receiver such as the
base unit, a smart phone or other computer via wi-fi and the
internet if service is available.
[0042] Field units 410 may include sensors to measure soil moisture
and soil temperature at regular time intervals (e.g. 15 minutes)
and at varying specified depths. The data from these sensors, when
collected over multiple growing seasons may be used to assess
important soil moisture parameters, including field saturation (FS)
moisture content (%), field capacity (FC) moisture content (%) and
plant water extraction limit (PWEL) moisture content (%). These
parameters can also be used to estimate other parameters, including
plant available water holding capacity (AWC).
[0043] An exemplary methodology for estimating FS, FC and PWEL
provides a simple approach that is quickly and easily interpreted.
A spreadsheet is populated with two columns of data. The first
column includes information about the time and date of data
collection. The second column includes corresponding volumetric
soil moisture measurements (%) from the sensor(s). Using data
analysis of the spreadsheet, the data in the spreadsheet columns
may be converted into a histogram of measured soil moisture values,
with the y-axis for the histogram being frequency of observation
and the x-axis being a "bin" for measured soil moisture. Bins are
typically assigned values such as 4-6, 6-8, 8-10, 10-12 . . .
30-32, 32-34, 34-36, 36-38, 38-40, 40-42, 42-44, 44-46 (etc.),
where the numbers represent a range of measured volumetric soil
moisture values.
[0044] A value associated with Field saturation is simply
determined by comparing the values in the various bins and
identifying the bin with the largest observed value for soil
moisture. The bin with the largest observed value is used to
identify FS at or near that sensor. The FS for multiple sensors may
be averaged to provide an average FS for the field. FC is
determined by identifying the value of the bin with the highest
frequency of observation (for the right hand peak when a bimodal
distribution exists). Plant water extraction limit (PWEL) is not
discernable in the case when long-term observations fail to include
a period of drought. When the observation includes a drought event
(low soil moisture for a period of time), the histogram will have a
bimodal shape. The PWEL in this case is the value of the bin with
the highest frequency of observation on the left hand peak of the
histogram. Plant available water holding capacity (AWC) is simply
determined by taking the difference between FC and PWEL. The FS and
FC may be modified dependent on soil type and alternatively may be
used to predict soil type. For example, if the resulting data for
FC=18% and AWC=10% then this data suggests a soil texture of coarse
sandy loam, loamy very fine sand or loamy fine sand. If the
resulting data for FC=22% and AWC=12% this data would suggest a
soil texture of sandy loam. Further, a resulting data of FC=34%
would suggests a soil texture of loam.
[0045] Crops experience water stress when plant available water is
depleted significantly. The allowable soil moisture depletion
before irrigation is needed depends on the crop species, soil
texture, and crop growth stage. A common guideline is to irrigate
when plant available water is depleted by 50%. The user may set
notification preferences to alert the user when the soil moisture
decreases below a predefined percent.
[0046] Field capacity is the soil moisture content attained after a
soil is saturated and allowed to drain freely for two to three
days. At field capacity, the soil has an optimum supply of water
for the plant, along with an adequate supply of oxygen from gas
filled pores. When irrigation is applied, the objective is often to
add enough water to wet the soil up to field capacity. To estimate
the depth of water that should be added by irrigation, it is
necessary to know the initial soil moisture content (.crclbar.i),
the depth of soil (L), and the field capacity water content (FC).
The depth of water added by irrigating (dw) is simply the depth of
water held by the soil at field capacity (dwfc) minus the depth of
water held by the soil initially before the onset of irrigation
(dwi). The depth of water held by the soil at field capacity is
dwfc=FC*L, while the depth of water held by the soil prior to
irrigation is dwi=.crclbar.i*L.
[0047] Nitrogen (N) mineralization is a process in which soil
organic matter (SOM) is broken down by microorganisms, releasing
organic nitrogen in the form of ammonium (NH4+) that can be taken
up by crops. Ammonium can also be converted to nitrate-N (NO3-N),
which can be taken up by crops, leached through the soil or further
converted to nitrogen gas through denitrification. Because of the
challenges in estimating N mineralization rates, farmers making
nitrogen fertilizer recommendations often ignore the contributions
of SOM to N mineralization, resulting in over application of N
fertilizer. Those skilled in the art are familiar with algorithms
for estimating nitrogen mineralization in soil based on variations
over time in soil temperature and soil moisture. As soil
temperature increases, soil biological processes that include N
mineralization increase exponentially before levelling off. This
increase may be characterized to predict nitrogen mineralization
dependent upon observed soil temperature and soil moisture. Soil
moisture also affects N mineralization. Dry soils have slower
mineralization rates than soils at optimum moisture contents. In
similar fashion, excessively wet soils have slower mineralization
rates than soils at optimum moisture contents. For improved
generality, soil moisture content is represented in terms of the
relative saturation (s), which is the soil moisture content divided
by saturated soil moisture content. Saturated soil moisture content
can be obtained using an analysis of field unit outputs taking into
account SOM. Between transmissions, the sensor data may be obtained
(data polling) and stored. The data polling may occur, for example,
between every 15 minutes to two hours depending upon the battery
conservation protocol. Transmission between the base unit may occur
frequently or the user may set the amount of time between
updates.
[0048] As a further example of a particular use of the plant growth
platform, and without limitation intended, a grower may position
multiple field units 410 in a vineyard along a slope of the
hillside or field. The grower may select sensors to monitor the
moisture and oxygen levels within the soil next to a selected vine
but may also desire monitoring of the air temperature, amount of
light exposure, and humidity above the height of the vine. The
height of the sensor arm for each field unit may be adjusted
dependent upon the height of the nearby vines. The grower may
monitor data from each field unit and may, for example, make
irrigation and fertilization decision dependent upon the compiled
data resulting from the information obtained from the field units.
Further, information from the field units assist the grower in
determining variations in vine growth dependent upon location of
the vine within the field. This information may be helpful in
accessing future irrigation or fertilization plans.
[0049] The field unit 410 of the present invention is particularly
well suited for remote transmission of crop growth and field
condition data or information to a base unit 120. Depending upon
the crop being grown, the desirable height of the sensors above the
crop growth canopy may be varied. The field unit 410 is
particularly well suited to maintain selected sensors at a desired
height above a crop growth canopy. A worm drive, turbo motor and
separate power supply may be utilized to actuate the sensors to a
desired height. Also, the field unit provides a stable sensor mount
that reduces the need for continuous maintenance. With reference to
the FIGS. 4-10, various embodiments according to aspects of the
invention will be described in greater detail.
[0050] With reference to FIGS. 4-6, a field unit 410 is shown
having the support 420 in the expanded (FIGS. 4 and 6) and
contracted (FIG. 5) positions and the telescoping pole 500 in the
extended (FIG. 6) and retracted position (FIGS. 4 and 5). The
flexibility of the field unit allows a user to adjust the unit
dependent upon the field terrain and crop growth height. The
support 420 includes a central column 424, an upper spacer member
430, a lower spacer member 440, and legs 450 rotationally coupled
to the upper and lower spacer members. The rotational coupling of
the legs to the support members generally includes linkage 470 and
a joint or pins 458 and 460. Remote data transmit module housing
480 and pole 500 are coupled to the central column 424 of the
support 420. An arm member 520 is fixed to an upper end of pole 500
and a sensor 530 is fixed to an outer end of the arm member 520.
Sensors 472 and 474 are shown attached to the upper spacer member
430. The field unit 410 may further include a wireless controlled
actuator of suitable construction to raise and lower the pole and
may further include a solar panel of known suitable construction
coupled to the remote data transmit module to provide power to the
actuator, sensors and wireless remote data transmit module. Further
the telescoping pole may be utilized as an optional antenna for
wireless transmission. The wireless aspect of the invention may
include wi-fi, z-wave, cellular, Bluetooth or other wireless
systems capable of transmitting and receiving data and commands
(one such embodiment being represented in field use schematic 100).
Operating system apps may also be utilized to create additional
functionality for the module.
[0051] With reference now to FIGS. 7-10 the upper spacer member 430
includes a central aperture 432 extending through the spacer member
430 through which central column 424 slides. Similarly, lower
spacer member 440 includes a central aperture 444 partially
extending through the spacer member 430. Column 424 fits into
aperture 444 and the bottom of column 424 rests upon the lower
spacer member 440. Fingers 434 are formed in the upper spacer
member 430 and are well suited to firmly grasp soil oxygen sensor
474. Additional fingers or clamps 436 and 540 are formed in the
upper and lower support members 430 and 440 respectively. The
fingers or clamps are sized to firmly grasp lower section 504 of
extendable pole 500. Slots 438 are formed in the upper support
member 430 and are adapted for receiving additional sensor 472 and
module 476. Lower spacer member 440 includes rotational joint 442
that receives upper or fixed end 452 of leg 450. The lower or
ground end 454 of the legs 450 includes a plug 464 that inserts
into the open end of the leg 450 and blocks soil from inserting
into hollow legs 450. Alternatively, the plug 464 may be
substituted with a tine stile end for each leg to allow a user to
push the tine and secure each leg to the ground. A mid portion 456
of each leg includes a rotational joint 460 and the end 452 of each
leg includes a rotational joint 458. Clamps 462 secure the end 452
to the upper member 430. Linkage 470 is rotationally fixed to the
lower spacer member 440 at rotational joint 442 and an opposite end
of the linkage is rotationally fixed to the mid rotational joint
460 of the leg 450. As the upper member 430 slides up the central
column 424 the legs 450 contract inwards and as the upper member
430 slides downward the legs 450 rotate and expand outward.
[0052] Remote data transmit module includes housing 480 that is
connected to the central column 424 with a fixed ring 496 that
engages with the column 424 to fix the housing 480 relative to the
column. Mounting bracket 494 and clamp 540 further provide a
mechanism to mount the housing or engage the housing 480 with the
extendable pole 500. Housing 480 encloses a power supply 482 and
integrated circuit 488. Electrical interconnects 484 provide
physical interconnects between a variety of sensors and the
integrated circuit. The control board or circuit 488 also has the
capability to wirelessly connect sensors having wireless
transmitters. Antenna 486 assists the transmission of data or
information collected from the sensors from the control board 488
to a base station 120. The housing 480 further includes a hinged
490 having latches 492 wherein when the door is closed the door is
sealed to the housing to prevent moisture from entering into the
housing.
[0053] Extendable pole 500 includes a first section 502 and second
section 504 that are coupled together via coupling 506. In the
embodiment illustrated in the Figures, the first section has a
diameter that is less than the inner diameter of the second section
506, thereby allowing the first section to extend in and out of the
second section. Other known extendable poles of different
construction may be utilized without department from the scope of
the invention. An upper portion 508 of the first section 502 is
fixed to arm member 520 by a clamp 528. The clamp may be loosened
and the arm member 520 may be removed from the pole 500. Slots 524
and 526 formed in the arm member may be utilized to hang the arm
member 520 on the support 420 when collapsing and storing the field
unit 410. Alternatively, the slots 524 and 526 may be utilized to
engage and support additional sensors on arm 520. Sensor 530 is
positioned on the outer end of arm member 520 to avoid interference
with the remote data transmit module electronics and other sensors.
In use, one or more field units 410 may be positioned in a crop
field. Sensors are positioned in the ground or on the support 420
and activated.
[0054] These and various other aspects and features of the
invention are described with the intent to be illustrative, and not
restrictive. This invention has been described herein with detail
in order to comply with the patent statutes and to provide those
skilled in the art with information needed to apply the novel
principles and to construct and use such specialized components as
are required. It is to be understood, however, that the invention
can be carried out by specifically different constructions, and
that various modifications, both as to the construction and
operating procedures, can be accomplished without departing from
the scope of the invention. Further, in the appended claims, the
transitional terms comprising and including are used in the
open-ended sense in that elements in addition to those enumerated
may also be present. Other examples will be apparent to those of
skill in the art upon reviewing this document.
* * * * *